How to check the shutter count on the Pentax KP
The shutter count is the number of photos a camera has taken. It's the first thing to check before you buy a used Pentax KP, and worth adding to your listing when you sell one.
How to check the shutter count on the Pentax KP
- Take one photo with the camera (ideally in PEF format) and copy the original file to your computer or phone.
- Open the Reti shutter counter and add the file.
- You'll see the shutter count, the shutter wear rating and whether the camera has the latest firmware.
Pentax KP shutter life
The typical shutter life of this model is about 100,000 shots (estimate for this class of camera).
What shutter count is high on the Pentax KP
| Shutter count | Rating |
|---|---|
| up to 25,000 shots | Low |
| 25,000 to 60,000 shots | Medium |
| over 60,000 shots | High |
This is a rough guide: a shutter can fail earlier or last much longer than its typical life.
What else to check on a used Pentax KP
- Sensor: one photo of the sky and one with the body cap on show dust and dead pixels.
- Autofocus: a few photos of the AF test chart show whether the lens focuses in front of or behind the target.
- Viewfinder, mirror and focusing screen: scratches, marks and dust you see in the viewfinder but not in photos.
- Lens mount and contacts: play with a lens attached, dirty or bent contacts.
- Card slot, doors, rubber grips and hot shoe: looseness, cracks and signs of a drop.
- Battery: does it last for a few dozen shots.
For the full checklist to take to the seller, see How to check a used camera before you buy.